Fin's Fish Guide
The Roughskin dogfish (Centroscymnus owstonii) is a saltwater fish of the family Somniosidae that grows up to 148 cm.
Description
The roughskin dogfish is a deep-sea shark occurring worldwide in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has a stocky, dark-brown to black body with rough skin and large, green eyes. It lives along the continental slope between about 100 and 1500 metres depth and hunts fish and squid. Its large, oil-rich liver is used for squalene. The flesh is high in mercury and poisonous to eat. Through fishing pressure it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roughskin dogfish?
The Roughskin dogfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Oil-rich liver (squalene); flesh high in mercury, poisonous to eat
Where does the Roughskin dogfish live?
The Roughskin dogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Worldwide (deep sea)
How big does the Roughskin dogfish get?
The Roughskin dogfish grows to a maximum of about 148 cm.
Is the Roughskin dogfish dangerous to humans?
The Roughskin dogfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not eat: the flesh contains high levels of mercury (and other compounds) and is considered poisonous. If symptoms occur after consumption, seek medical help.
Is the Roughskin dogfish edible?
The Roughskin dogfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Centroscymnus
More from the family Somniosidae
Want the complete picture on the Roughskin dogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Roughskin dogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.